0xharib/xword1 · Datasets at Hugging Face

instruction stringclasses 1 value	input stringlengths 16 143	output stringlengths 40 1.17k
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Issue not raised naturally (7)	### Answer: ADOPTEE ### Explanation: Definition: Issue not raised naturally Cryptic defn. The issue,offspring that is not raised by its natural parents, but by the adopters. Famous example is the baby cuckoo, albeit the (smaller in size) foster parents have been deceived.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Setters we can deal with? (3,8)	### Answer: DOG HANDLERS ### Explanation: Definition: Setters we can deal with? Cryptic defn. The "we" who can deal with,handle canine setters, as opposed to the "we" solvers who can handle crossword setters.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Walk after a hearty breakfast? (2,2,3,8)	### Answer: GO TO THE SCAFFOLD ### Explanation: Definition: Walk after a hearty breakfast? Cryptic defn. For those who are to be executed at the scaffold, usually hanged, and usually in the early morning, the walk after the traditional last meal, which would be a hearty (or not) breakfast.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Girl seen in college put into a story (5)	### Answer: ALICE ### Explanation: Definition: Girl C($$c$$ollege) in(put into) A LIE(story,tale,fabrication).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dance company following society's conventions (7)	### Answer: MORESCO ### Explanation: Definition: Dance CO($$co$$mpany) after(following) MORES(society's conventions,norms) Defn: Another word for Morris dancing, derived from "Moorish" dance. The term originated from when the Spaniards were celebrating the expulsion of the Moors from Spain. "Perhaps we need more multi-culturalism."
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Actor's car in colour Henry wouldn't allow! (7)	### Answer: REDFORD ### Explanation: Definition: Actor RED(colour) + FORD(the mass-produced Model T Ford car, of which Henry Ford, industrialist and founder of the Ford Motor Company, famously said, "Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it is black"). My COD, if only because it led me on a wild-goose chase after English Henry's, especially kings and the War of the Roses (red against white). Got it after starting the blog. Defn: Robert, actor, and latterly movie director and producer.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Saw why Keith couldn't pick up Kate? (1,7,5,7,2,4)	### Answer: A ROLLING STONE GATHERS NO MOSS ### Explanation: Definition: Saw A ROLLING STONE(Keith Richards, a member of the rock group Rolling Stones) GATHERS NO(couldn't pick up) MOSS(Kate, British model) Defn: The proverb
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: What could make one moan so — staginess in old play (6,9)	### Answer: SAMSON AGONISTES ### Explanation: Definition: old play Anagram(what could make one) of MOAN SO STAGINESS Defn: Drama by John Milton about the Biblical character who owed his strength to his hair, and was betrayed by Delilah. "Samson" has come to personify a person of great strength, and "Delilah" a seductive treacherous woman.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Car registration set up for 5 23 (6)	### Answer: JAGGER ### Explanation: Definition: 5 23 JAG(short for Jaguar, an iconic British make of car) + reversal(set up, in a down clue) of REG(short for registration) Defn: Mick, another member of the Rolling Stones.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Goddess sinking into bath energetically (6)	### Answer: ATHENE ### Explanation: Definition: Goddess Hidden(sinking into) in bATH ENErgetically Defn: Ancient Greed goddess of wisdom, fertility, the useful arts, and prudent warfare (a strange combination of attibutes?).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: 19's uni? (8)	### Answer: STIRLING ### Explanation: Definition: 19's,uni Double defn: 1st: STIRLING(Sir 19,Moss, a pioneering English racing car driver, who competed between 1948 and 1962) and 2nd: The University in Scotland.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bound to carry identification that's in good order (6)	### Answer: TIDIED ### Explanation: Definition: in good order TIED(bound) around(carry) ID(short for identification)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cheese in bed girl's eaten (7)	### Answer: RICOTTA ### Explanation: Definition: Cheese RITA(name of a girl) around(eaten) COT(bed, especially for infants and young children).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Writer turning up to probe fat cat (7)	### Answer: LEOPARD ### Explanation: Definition: cat Reversal(turning up, in a down clue) of POE(Edgar Allan, American Gothic writer) in(to probe) LARD(rendered fat, especially from pork…or it could be excess fat on a person's body, with related rude names for the person).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Wife tucks into horse, fricasséed (6)	### Answer: STEWED ### Explanation: Definition: fricasséed W($$w$$ife) in(tucks into) STEED(horse).
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: One very absorbed by erotic entertainment (8)	### Answer: CARNIVAL ### Explanation: Definition: entertainment {I(Roman numeral for one) + V($$v$$ery)} in(absorbed by) CARNAL(lustful,erotic)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A sign some resemble me? (6)	### Answer: EMBLEM ### Explanation: Definition: A sign Hidden(some) in *resEMBLE Me
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Cut in yield (4)	### Answer: CROP ### Explanation: Definition: Cut,yield Double defn. 1st: To cut short, as with one's hair; and 2nd: What's produced,yielded in a farmer's crop fields.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: See one drawing tall building (10)	### Answer: WATCHTOWER ### Explanation: Definition: tall building WATCH(observe,see) TOWER(one that is drawing,towing,pulling)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Walk to turn at end of road (6)	### Answer: STROLL ### Explanation: Definition: Walk ROLL(move along by turning over and over, eg. a ball, or wheel) after(at end) of ST(abbreviation for street)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Leave girl with acute problem (8)	### Answer: EVACUATE ### Explanation: Definition: Leave EVA(name of a girl) + anagram(problem) of *ACUTE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Perhaps Virginia is a sycophant (7)	### Answer: CREEPER ### Explanation: Definition: a sycophant Virginia creeper,five-leaved ivy,five-finger, an example(perhaps) of a CREEPER. Spent some time trying to fit in VA before getting the checked letters.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Produce vicar took back to food shop (7)	### Answer: DELIVER ### Explanation: Definition: Produce Reversal(took back) of REV(abbreviation for reverend,vicar) +(to) DELI(short for delicatessen, shop selling various foods, especially unusual or imported, already cooked or prepared. The word is an Americanism from the German for "delicacies")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: First-born to hurry away after rejection (5-3)	### Answer: BRUSH-OFF ### Explanation: Definition: rejection B(initial,first letter of born) +(after) RUSH OFF(to hurry away)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Criticise attempt to find a little room (6)	### Answer: PANTRY ### Explanation: Definition: a little room PAN(criticise usually severely, as in "the play was panned on its first night") + TRY(an attempt)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: They're behind star turn by royal horseman outside (10)	### Answer: STRAGGLERS ### Explanation: Definition: They're behind Anagram(turn) of STAR +(by) {GG(gee-gee,a horse) LES(name for a man)} around(outside) R($$r$$oyal). Tricky parsing, because of the "horse"/"man" and the "royal"/"horseman" conjunction in the clue.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: About time it's barred (4)	### Answer: CAGE ### Explanation: Definition: it's barred C($$c$$irca,about) + AGE(time period)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Engineers arrange holiday location (6)	### Answer: RESORT ### Explanation: Definition: holiday location RE($$R$$oyal $$E$$ngineers) SORT(to arrange,put in some sort of order)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Ordered green tea for young person (8)	### Answer: TEENAGER ### Explanation: Definition: young person Anagram(ordered) of *GREEN TEA
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: One describes Scottish island facing decline in recession (8)	### Answer: NARRATOR ### Explanation: Definition: One describes Reversal(in recession) of {ARRAN(Scottish island) +(facing) ROT(to decline,decompose)}. Edit.note: Following comments #1&2, it should perhaps be …{ROT(…) +(facing) ARRAN(…)}, to be strict about it.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: That's the very same sound! (4)	### Answer: SNAP ### Explanation: Definition: That's the very same,sound Double defn: 1st: Word to indicate you and someone have the very same,identical items or experiences, as in "me too!". Derived from the children's card game, Snap; and 2nd: Sudden sharp sound made by eg. snapping one's fingers, towel.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A girl embraced love with declaration (6)	### Answer: AVOWAL ### Explanation: Definition: declaration A VAL(name for a girl) around(embraced) {O(letter that looks like, and therefore is used to represent zero,love,nought) W($$w$$ith)}
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Less inclined to give praise (7)	### Answer: FLATTER ### Explanation: Definition: give praise More flat,less inclined,less slanting. "Flat" is used here in the sense of being horizontal, with an inclination of zero degrees, eg. flat on the floor. Not to be confused with "flat" to mean smooth, without projections – such a surface could be both flat and inclined.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Put it another way — return per share is terrible (8)	### Answer: REPHRASE ### Explanation: Definition: Put it another way Reversal(return) of PER + anagram(is terrible) of *SHARE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pardon given by a bishop is the answer (10)	### Answer: ABSOLUTION ### Explanation: Definition: Pardon A B($$b$$ishop as in chess) SOLUTION(the answer to eg. a problem). A great surface.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Good to make a mark outside the church (6)	### Answer: DECENT ### Explanation: Definition: Good DENT(in the verbal sense, to knock,damage,make a mark) around(outside) CE($$C$$hurch of $$E$$ngland)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Free time when attacks are to be expected (4,6)	### Answer: OPEN SEASON ### Explanation: Definition: when attacks are to be expected OPEN(free of obstruction to entry, movement, sight, eg. an Open tournament, an open office) SEASON(time of year). Defn: When applied to hunting, the period during which it is legal (terms and conditions apply) to catch or hunt fish and game protected by law at other times. As applied to humans or things, it denotes a period when attacks,criticisms,mistreatment are common,to be expected,.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Not all alone, sadly, after opening stretch (8)	### Answer: ELONGATE ### Explanation: Definition: stretch Anagram(sadly) of LONE(without all,not all the letters of alone) +(after?) GATE(opening in a fence). The use of "after" when what is intended is "to place before" appears a bit problematical. Defn: The verb stretch.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Premature to grab flourished unfinished drink? (4,4)	### Answer: EARL GREY ### Explanation: Definition: drink EARLY(premature,before the appropriate time) around(to grab) GRE(without the last letter,unfinished of "grew",flourished) Defn: Blend of Indian and Sri Lankan tea named after Earl Charles Grey in the early 19C.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Delivers one's belongings (7)	### Answer: EFFECTS ### Explanation: Definition: Delivers,one's belongings Double defn: 1st: To make happen,delivers, eg.on a promise; and 2nd: one's personal *belongings
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Somewhat unrestrained with her art (6)	### Answer: RATHER ### Explanation: Definition: Somewhat Anagram(unrestrained) of HER ART Defn: To some degree, extent, as in "I say, this crossword was rather easy!".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Mixture left is a delicate shade (6)	### Answer: PASTEL ### Explanation: Definition: a delicate shade PASTE(mixture of a granular solid with a liquid, resulting in a gooey texture, eg. dough for making pastries, clay for pottery, and starch glue) L($$l$$eft) Defn: Descriptive of a light,delicate shade,colour.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Shellfish student found in river (4)	### Answer: CLAM ### Explanation: Definition: Shellfish L(abbreviation for $$l$$earner,student) in(found in) CAM(name for many rivers, but the most famous is the one through Cambridge, which apparently gave its name to the river (renamed), and not vice versa.)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Food sheikh's dished out and child cut (5,5)	### Answer: SHISH KEBAB ### Explanation: Definition: Food Anagram(dished out) of {SHEIKH +(and) BAB(child,"baby" with its last letter deleted,cut)}
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Hold back this sly look (4)	### Answer: PEEK ### Explanation: Definition: sly look Reversal(back) of KEEP(as in "I'll keep,hold this for you")
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: River right in Ukraine beside lake (4)	### Answer: URAL ### Explanation: Definition: River R($$r$$ight) in UA(International Vehicle Registration,Internet domain code for Ukraine) beside L($$l$$ake)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Where ladies go – a place for explosive stuff (6,4)	### Answer: POWDER ROOM ### Explanation: Definition: Where ladies go Whimsical expression for a room,place where gunpowder and other explosive stuff are stored. Properly called a gunpowder room. Defn: Euphemism for the ladies' loo, where they go to supposedly powder their noses. Nice surface with the "powder" bit. Powder room at Changi Airport Terminal 3
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Women confuse the Penguin's gait? (6)	### Answer: WADDLE ### Explanation: Definition: the Penguin's gait W($$w$$omen) ADDLE(to mix up,muddle,confuse)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: The French heroes are moved by a site of possible shipwreck (3,5)	### Answer: LEE SHORE ### Explanation: Definition: a site of possible shipwreck LE(the article the in French) + anagram(are moved) of HEROES Defn: The lee shore is the shore with the wind blowing towards it. The danger is that a ship, because of the wind, might be pushed to the shore, and possibly end up as a shipwreck.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Blokes curse their clobber (8)	### Answer: MENSWEAR ### Explanation: Definition: clobber MEN(guys,chaps,blokes) SWEAR(to curse) Defn: "Clobber" in British/Australian slang is a plural noun for "clothes".
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bombshell stripping off outerwear in public display (4)	### Answer: EXPO ### Explanation: Definition: public display sEXPOt,bombshell,someone with lots of "it" without(stripping off) the first and last letters,outerwear Defn: The short form for "exposition", which has come to mean a big exhibition, or fair, eg. the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: I'll leave Luigi stewing fruit (4)	### Answer: UGLI ### Explanation: Definition: fruit Anagram(stewing) of LUGI(Luigi without "i",I'll leave) Defn: The trade mark for a citrus fruit, the Jamaican tangelo, a cross between a pomelo (or grapefruit) and an orange and a tangerine.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Prawn cocktail? Comparatively sharp within two seconds (8)	### Answer: STARTERS ### Explanation: Definition: Prawn cocktail? TARTER(whimsical comparative,comparatively of "tart",sharp in taste,acidic) in(within) SS(s = one $$s$$econd, ss = two seconds) Defn: An example,? of starters, the first course of the meal.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Record in new demon cut (8)	### Answer: DOCUMENT ### Explanation: Definition: Record Anagram(new) of *DEMON CUT
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: This riddle's a cipher (6)	### Answer: ENIGMA ### Explanation: Definition: This riddle,a cipher Double defn: 2nd: The cipher,code used by the Germans in WWII, broken by British intelligence and used against the Germans
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Finished like an audience after umpteenth curtain call? (7,3)	### Answer: CLAPPED OUT ### Explanation: Definition: Finished Whimsical description of what an audience would be after having to clap at curtain call after curtain call. Defn: Slang for being exhausted,finished,spent.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Eye up part of 18 (4)	### Answer: OGLE ### Explanation: Definition: Eye up Hidden in(part of) 18,goOGLEd
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Month starts with atrocious days and rain (4)	### Answer: ADAR ### Explanation: Definition: Month Starts with,initial letters of Atrocious Days And Rain Defn: The 12th month of the year in the Jewish calendar.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: When all else fails try this campsite at Land's End? (4,6)	### Answer: LAST RESORT ### Explanation: Definition: When all else fails try this Another whimsical description, of the campsite,resort at lands' end,the last bit of land, on which the last resort stands.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Pasture's thyme time? (7)	### Answer: HERBAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Pasture HERB(of which thyme is an example,?) AGE(time period) Defn: Pasture's vegetation grazed by animals,pasturage.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Unhappy about a lovage's tip in cold meal (5)	### Answer: SALAD ### Explanation: Definition: cold meal SAD(unhappy) around(about) A L(initial letter,tip of "lovage". The word itself means a plant of the parsley family) Defn: A cold meal, mostly of raw vegetables. If one hated parsley and the like, one would be unhappy,sad (or mad) to find a tip of lovage in one's salad, making this a nice &lit.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: I p-perked up, having been made dry and cured (8)	### Answer: KIPPERED ### Explanation: Definition: made dry and cured Anagram(having been, I think) of *I P-PERKED
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Acts of cleaning up the "sharp end" with unusual dilatoriness (15)	### Answer: BOWDLERISATION ### Explanation: Definition: Acts of cleaning up BOW(the "sharp end", is the business end of things, where activity takes place; for seacraft, it's the bow, which also happens to be sharp,pointed, vs. the stern, though bows of bigger ships are nowadays rounded as well, to reduce drag) + anagram(unusual) of DILATORINESS Defn: Acts of cleaning up, aka censorship, of literature. Named after Thomas Bowdler, English editor of the late 18C/early 19C who published a special family edition Shakespeare's work which had been cleaned up,expurgated of "indecent" passages. Not to be confused with its opposite, "bawdlerisation", from "bawdy"….Nah, I just made that up!
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Who makes porter's brown jug? (6)	### Answer: BREWER ### Explanation: Definition: Who makes porter BR($$br$$own) EWER(jug) Defn: He/she makes beers and ales, including porter,a heavy dark-brown ale.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dry people start to tan skin (9)	### Answer: PARCHMENT ### Explanation: Definition: skin PARCH(to dry, eg. your throat) MEN(people, or strictly speaking, only about half of them) T(initial letter of,start to "tan") Defn: The skin of sheep, goats, etc. that's been prepared for writing on.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: This boosts, for example, ordinary journey (3,4)	### Answer: EGO TRIP ### Explanation: Definition: This boosts EG(exempli gratia,for example) O($$o$$rdinary) TRIP(journey) Defn: Something that boosts one's ego, maybe like completing a Nimrod, Anax, Loroso, Bannsider, et al, or any decent crossword for that matter.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A particularly thick woollie for winter Olympian, perhaps (3,6)	### Answer: SKI JUMPER ### Explanation: Definition: winter Olympian, perhaps SKI(an adjective to signify usage in skiing, as in "ski mask", and presumably made of particularly thick material) JUMPER(woollen pullover sweater,woolly,woollie) Remember him?
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Voracious huntress with long hair at hospital dept (3-5)	### Answer: MAN-EATER ### Explanation: Definition: Voracious huntress MANE(long hair, such as lions and horses have) AT ER($$e$$mergency $$r$$oom,hospital dept) Defn: Literally, an animal who would hunt and devour humans (both men and women). Figuratively (there's a reason Jason has used the female gender "huntress"), a female who hunts and devours men…and maybe that's in the literal sense too (a la Private Eye)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Searched for broken leg in use (7)	### Answer: GOOGLED ### Explanation: Definition: Searched Anagram(broken) of LEG in GOOD(I'm not 100% sure of this: either as in "It's no use to dream" = "it's no good to dream", or if "in" doubles up, "in use" = "good" for a purpose)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: She goes on and on about trek? (7)	### Answer: RAMBLER ### Explanation: Definition: She goes on and on, about trek Could be regarded as a double defn: 1st: She who goes talking/writing on and on,rambles on; and 2nd: She who strolls,rambles on and on about(on) the trek,expedition.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Something for brekkie is right after church (6)	### Answer: CEREAL ### Explanation: Definition: Something for brekkie REAL(right,proper,utter, usually in a negative context, as in "he's a right/proper/utter git" = "he really is a git") Defn: Your carbohydrate,carbo for breakfast,*brekkie
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Solid vagrant objects to worship (5)	### Answer: IDOLS ### Explanation: Definition: objects to worship Anagram(vagrant) of *SOLID
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Ruth Rendell's first English detective (7)	### Answer: REMORSE ### Explanation: Definition: Ruth R(first letter of Rendell) + E($$E$$nglish) + MORSE(Detective Chief Inspector, detective in Colin Dexter's series of novels set in Oxford. Among other things, Endeavour – his first name -was a cryptic crossword enthusiast). Defn: The noun meaning compassion,contrition,remorse, the root of the more common "ruthless". Probably some connection (but I don't know what) with Ruth, the biblical character known for her kindness and faithfulness. Nice surface to this as Ruth Rendell has her own series of mystery novels, centred around another English detective.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Throw out a proposed scheme (7)	### Answer: PROJECT ### Explanation: Definition: Throw out,a proposed scheme Double defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Crowd entertainer (4)	### Answer: HOST ### Explanation: Definition: Crowd,entertainer Double defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Bible story about fellow deserving forgiveness (10)	### Answer: PARDONABLE ### Explanation: Definition: deserving forgiveness PARABLE(Bible story which illustrates/teaches by allegory) around(about) DON(fellow/head/tutor at a university)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: The never ending round (6)	### Answer: CIRCLE ### Explanation: Definition: The never ending round Cryptic defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: OK, cheer set point for the brave (8)	### Answer: CHEROKEE ### Explanation: Definition: the brave Anagram(set) of OK CHEER + E($$e$$ast,compass point) Defn: A brave,male member of one of the American Indian tribes
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Coastline that's rocky in parts (9)	### Answer: SECTIONAL ### Explanation: Definition: in parts Anagram(that's rocky) of *COASTLINE
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Irritable friend of Mole and Toad (5)	### Answer: RATTY ### Explanation: Definition: Irritable,friend of Mole and Toad Double defn. 2nd: One of the characters in The Wind in the Willows, a children's book, featuring 4 main characters: Mole, Mr. Toad, Mr. Badger, and Ratty, who is, well, a water rat, friends all.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: There are four to each deck, used for lifting (5)	### Answer: JACKS ### Explanation: Definition: There are four to each deck,used for lifting Double defn: 1st: Each pack,deck of playing cards has a jack of each of the four suits; and 2nd: mechanisms used for lifting cars, and even houses
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Steps inside (9)	### Answer: STAIRCASE ### Explanation: Definition: Steps inside Cryptic defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Taking trouble to point out (8)	### Answer: ADOPTION ### Explanation: Definition: Taking ADO(trouble,to-do) +(to) anagram(out) of POINT Defn: The noun, the "taking" in of an adoptee.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Deputy head with masses of paper getting dark thoughts (6)	### Answer: DREAMS ### Explanation: Definition: dark thoughts D(initial letter,head of "deputy") +(with) REAMS(masses,large quantity, derived from the measure of paper, 1 ream = 500 sheets)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Shortest way to the top, believe me (8,2)	### Answer: STRAIGHT UP ### Explanation: Definition: Shortest way to the top,believe me Double defn: 2nd: "(I'm being) straight up","no kiddling","believe me"
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: An opening for five, possibly ten (4)	### Answer: VENT ### Explanation: Definition: An opening V(Roman numeral for five) + anagram(possibly) of *TEN
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Checks made by the police? (7)	### Answer: ARRESTS ### Explanation: Definition: Checks Cryptic defn.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Blow this for the French game to start (7)	### Answer: WHISTLE ### Explanation: Definition: Blow this First,to start with WHIST(card game, forerunner of bridge) + LE(the article the in French)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sweetheart has reason to be sensitive (7)	### Answer: EMOTIVE ### Explanation: Definition: sensitive E(Middle letter,heart of sweet) +(has) MOTIVE(purpose,reason to do something) Defn: Highly subject,sensitive to being emotional
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: An eye for a drink (5)	### Answer: OPTIC ### Explanation: Definition: An eye,for a drink Double defn. 1st: Your familiar organ; and 2nd: the not-so-familiar trademark (apparently) name for your familiar drink dispenser that is attached to an inverted bottle.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: C-in-C starts to drink, gets more intoxicated (7)	### Answer: SUPREMO ### Explanation: Definition: C-in-C First,starts with SUP(drink) +(gets) anagram(intoxicated) of MORE Defn: $$C$$ommander$$-in-C$$hief, eg. General Dwight Eisenhower, Supreme Commander, Allied Forces in Europe, and later supreme commander of NATO.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Offered support in getting established (6)	### Answer: ROOTED ### Explanation: Definition: Offered support,established Double defn. 1st: Gave,offered support,rooted for; and 2nd: having been established,taken root
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: A French maid (4,2,3)	### Answer: JOAN OF ARC ### Explanation: Definition: A French maid Cryptic defn. Frenchwoman Jeanne d'Arc, the Maid of Orleans, who claimed divine guidance, and led her nation's army to several important victories against the English. Finally burned at the stake in Rouen. Edit.note: The original picture in the middle was probably blocked because it had an embedded link. It has been replaced.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Sect takes up clergyman involved in a runaway affair (7)	### Answer: CULVERT ### Explanation: Definition: a runaway affair CULT(religious or pseudo-religious sect) around(takes) reversal(up, in a down clue) of REV(the $$Rev$$erend so and so,clergyman) Defn: Basically a drain to take runoff,runaway water
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Drag one's feet on stair carpet that's laid out (13)	### Answer: PROCRASTINATE ### Explanation: Definition: Drag one's feet Anagram(that's laid out) of *ON STAIR CARPET
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Happen to finish in the first three (4,5)	### Answer: TAKE PLACE ### Explanation: Definition: Happen,to finish in the first three Double defn: 1st: To occur,happen; and 2nd: The first three competitors to finish in a race, earning a gold, silver or bronze. However, for those, me included, who have had at least the occasional wager on the ponies, it's win, place and show for first, second and third respectively in a horse race.
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: His examinations necessitate a lot of bookwork (7)	### Answer: AUDITOR ### Explanation: Definition: His Cryptic defn. He who carries out an examination of the books of a company to detect any irregularities, assuming he's better than the company's bean-counters/conjurers
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Detailed sort of investigation showing trendy profundity (2-5)	### Answer: IN-DEPTH ### Explanation: Definition: Detailed sort IN(with the in-crowd,trendy) + DEPTH(state of being profound,penetrating deeply into subjects and ideas,*profundity)
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: It is important to change lanes when encircling motorway (7)	### Answer: SEMINAL ### Explanation: Definition: It is important Anagram(to change) of LANES around(when encircling) MI(=M1, the motorway in England) Defn: Important to the extent that it is highly original and influential
You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.	### Clue: Dog dropped tail to receive fuss (6)	### Answer: FIDGET ### Explanation: Definition: fuss FID("Fido", the nominal dog, minus,dropped its last letter,tail) + GET(to receive)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Issue not raised naturally (7)

### Answer: ADOPTEE ### Explanation: Definition: Issue not raised naturally Cryptic defn. The *issue*,offspring that is *not raised* by its *natural* parents, but by the adopters. Famous example is the baby cuckoo, albeit the (smaller in size) foster parents have been deceived.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Setters we can deal with? (3,8)

### Answer: DOG HANDLERS ### Explanation: Definition: Setters we can deal with? Cryptic defn. The "*we*" who *can deal with*,handle canine *setters*, as opposed to the "we" solvers who can handle crossword setters.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Walk after a hearty breakfast? (2,2,3,8)

### Answer: GO TO THE SCAFFOLD ### Explanation: Definition: Walk after a hearty breakfast? Cryptic defn. For those who are to be executed at the scaffold, usually hanged, and usually in the early morning, the *walk after* the traditional last meal, which would be *a hearty* (or not) *breakfast*.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Girl seen in college put into a story (5)

### Answer: ALICE ### Explanation: Definition: Girl C(*$$c$$ollege*) in(*put into*) A LIE(*story*,tale,fabrication).

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Dance company following society's conventions (7)

### Answer: MORESCO ### Explanation: Definition: Dance CO(*$$co$$mpany*) after(*following*) MORES(*society's conventions*,norms) Defn: Another word for Morris dancing, derived from "Moorish" dance. The term originated from when the Spaniards were celebrating the expulsion of the Moors from Spain. "Perhaps we need more multi-culturalism."

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Actor's car in colour Henry wouldn't allow! (7)

### Answer: REDFORD ### Explanation: Definition: Actor RED(*colour*) + FORD(the mass-produced Model T Ford *car*, of which *Henry* Ford, industrialist and founder of the Ford Motor Company, famously said, "Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it is black"). My COD, if only because it led me on a wild-goose chase after English Henry's, especially kings and the War of the Roses (red against white). Got it after starting the blog. Defn: Robert, *actor*, and latterly movie director and producer.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Saw why Keith couldn't pick up Kate? (1,7,5,7,2,4)

### Answer: A ROLLING STONE GATHERS NO MOSS ### Explanation: Definition: Saw A ROLLING STONE(*Keith* Richards, a member of the rock group Rolling Stones) GATHERS NO(*couldn't pick up*) MOSS(*Kate*, British model) Defn: The proverb

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: What could make one moan so — staginess in old play (6,9)

### Answer: SAMSON AGONISTES ### Explanation: Definition: old play Anagram(*what could make one*) of *MOAN SO STAGINESS* Defn: Drama by John Milton about the Biblical character who owed his strength to his hair, and was betrayed by Delilah. "Samson" has come to personify a person of great strength, and "Delilah" a seductive treacherous woman.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Car registration set up for 5 23 (6)

### Answer: JAGGER ### Explanation: Definition: 5 23 JAG(short for Jaguar, an iconic British make of *car*) + reversal(*set up*, in a down clue) of REG(short for *registration*) Defn: Mick, another member of the Rolling Stones.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Goddess sinking into bath energetically (6)

### Answer: ATHENE ### Explanation: Definition: Goddess Hidden(*sinking into*) in *bATH ENErgetically* Defn: Ancient Greed *goddess* of wisdom, fertility, the useful arts, and prudent warfare (a strange combination of attibutes?).

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: 19's uni? (8)

### Answer: STIRLING ### Explanation: Definition: 19's,uni Double defn: 1st: STIRLING(Sir *19*,Moss, a pioneering English racing car driver, who competed between 1948 and 1962) and 2nd: The *Uni*versity in Scotland.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Bound to carry identification that's in good order (6)

### Answer: TIDIED ### Explanation: Definition: in good order TIED(*bound*) around(*carry*) ID(short for *identification*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Cheese in bed girl's eaten (7)

### Answer: RICOTTA ### Explanation: Definition: Cheese RITA(name of a *girl*) around(*eaten*) COT(*bed*, especially for infants and young children).

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Writer turning up to probe fat cat (7)

### Answer: LEOPARD ### Explanation: Definition: cat Reversal(*turning up*, in a down clue) of POE(Edgar Allan, American Gothic *writer*) in(*to probe*) LARD(rendered *fat*, especially from pork…or it could be excess fat on a person's body, with related rude names for the person).

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Wife tucks into horse, fricasséed (6)

### Answer: STEWED ### Explanation: Definition: fricasséed W(*$$w$$ife*) in(*tucks into*) STEED(*horse*).

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: One very absorbed by erotic entertainment (8)

### Answer: CARNIVAL ### Explanation: Definition: entertainment {I(Roman numeral for *one*) + V(*$$v$$ery*)} in(*absorbed by*) CARNAL(lustful,*erotic*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A sign some resemble me? (6)

### Answer: EMBLEM ### Explanation: Definition: A sign Hidden(*some*) in *resEMBLE Me

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Cut in yield (4)

### Answer: CROP ### Explanation: Definition: Cut,yield Double defn. 1st: To *cut* short, as with one's hair; and 2nd: What's produced,*yield*ed in a farmer's crop fields.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: See one drawing tall building (10)

### Answer: WATCHTOWER ### Explanation: Definition: tall building WATCH(observe,*see*) TOWER(*one* that is *drawing*,towing,pulling)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Walk to turn at end of road (6)

### Answer: STROLL ### Explanation: Definition: Walk ROLL(move along by *turn*ing over and over, eg. a ball, or wheel) after(*at end*) of ST(abbreviation for *street*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Leave girl with acute problem (8)

### Answer: EVACUATE ### Explanation: Definition: Leave EVA(name of a *girl*) + anagram(*problem*) of *ACUTE

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Perhaps Virginia is a sycophant (7)

### Answer: CREEPER ### Explanation: Definition: a sycophant *Virginia* creeper,five-leaved ivy,five-finger, an example(*perhaps*) of a CREEPER. Spent some time trying to fit in VA before getting the checked letters.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Produce vicar took back to food shop (7)

### Answer: DELIVER ### Explanation: Definition: Produce Reversal(*took back*) of REV(abbreviation for reverend,*vicar*) +(*to*) DELI(short for delicatessen, *shop* selling various *food*s, especially unusual or imported, already cooked or prepared. The word is an Americanism from the German for "delicacies")

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: First-born to hurry away after rejection (5-3)

### Answer: BRUSH-OFF ### Explanation: Definition: rejection B(initial,*first* letter of *born*) +(*after*) RUSH OFF(*to hurry away*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Criticise attempt to find a little room (6)

### Answer: PANTRY ### Explanation: Definition: a little room PAN(*criticise* usually severely, as in "the play was panned on its first night") + TRY(an *attempt*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: They're behind star turn by royal horseman outside (10)

### Answer: STRAGGLERS ### Explanation: Definition: They're behind Anagram(*turn*) of *STAR* +(*by*) {GG(gee-gee,a *horse*) LES(name for a *man*)} around(*outside*) R(*$$r$$oyal*). Tricky parsing, because of the "horse"/"man" and the "royal"/"horseman" conjunction in the clue.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: About time it's barred (4)

### Answer: CAGE ### Explanation: Definition: it's barred C($$c$$irca,*about*) + AGE(*time* period)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Engineers arrange holiday location (6)

### Answer: RESORT ### Explanation: Definition: holiday location RE($$R$$oyal *$$E$$ngineers*) SORT(to *arrange*,put in some sort of order)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Ordered green tea for young person (8)

### Answer: TEENAGER ### Explanation: Definition: young person Anagram(*ordered*) of *GREEN TEA

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: One describes Scottish island facing decline in recession (8)

### Answer: NARRATOR ### Explanation: Definition: One describes Reversal(*in recession*) of {ARRAN(*Scottish island*) +(*facing*) ROT(to *decline*,decompose)}. Edit.note: Following comments #1&2, it should perhaps be …{ROT(…) +(*facing*) ARRAN(…)}, to be strict about it.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: That's the very same sound! (4)

### Answer: SNAP ### Explanation: Definition: That's the very same,sound Double defn: 1st: Word to indicate you and someone have *the very same*,identical items or experiences, as in "me too!". Derived from the children's card game, Snap; and 2nd: Sudden sharp *sound* made by eg. snapping one's fingers, towel.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A girl embraced love with declaration (6)

### Answer: AVOWAL ### Explanation: Definition: declaration *A* VAL(name for a *girl*) around(*embraced*) {O(letter that looks like, and therefore is used to represent zero,*love*,nought) W(*$$w$$ith*)}

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Less inclined to give praise (7)

### Answer: FLATTER ### Explanation: Definition: give praise More flat,*less inclined*,less slanting. "Flat" is used here in the sense of being horizontal, with an inclination of zero degrees, eg. flat on the floor. Not to be confused with "flat" to mean smooth, without projections – such a surface could be both flat and inclined.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Put it another way — return per share is terrible (8)

### Answer: REPHRASE ### Explanation: Definition: Put it another way Reversal(*return*) of *PER* + anagram(*is terrible*) of *SHARE

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pardon given by a bishop is the answer (10)

### Answer: ABSOLUTION ### Explanation: Definition: Pardon *A* B(*$$b$$ishop* as in chess) SOLUTION(the *answer* to eg. a problem). A great surface.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Good to make a mark outside the church (6)

### Answer: DECENT ### Explanation: Definition: Good DENT(in the verbal sense, to knock,damage,*make a mark*) around(*outside*) CE(*$$C$$hurch* of $$E$$ngland)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Free time when attacks are to be expected (4,6)

### Answer: OPEN SEASON ### Explanation: Definition: when attacks are to be expected OPEN(*free* of obstruction to entry, movement, sight, eg. an Open tournament, an open office) SEASON(*time* of year). Defn: When applied to hunting, the period during which it is legal (terms and conditions apply) to catch or hunt fish and game protected by law at other times. As applied to humans or things, it denotes a period when *attacks*,criticisms,mistreatment are common*,to be expected*,.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Not all alone, sadly, after opening stretch (8)

### Answer: ELONGATE ### Explanation: Definition: stretch Anagram(*sadly*) of LONE(without all,*not all* the letters of *alone*) +(*after*?) GATE(*opening* in a fence). The use of "after" when what is intended is "to place before" appears a bit problematical. Defn: The verb *stretch*.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Premature to grab flourished unfinished drink? (4,4)

### Answer: EARL GREY ### Explanation: Definition: drink EARLY(*premature*,before the appropriate time) around(*to grab*) GRE(without the last letter,*unfinished* of "grew",*flourished*) Defn: Blend of Indian and Sri Lankan tea named after Earl Charles Grey in the early 19C.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Delivers one's belongings (7)

### Answer: EFFECTS ### Explanation: Definition: Delivers,one's belongings Double defn: 1st: To make happen,*delivers*, eg.on a promise; and 2nd: *one's* personal *belongings

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Somewhat unrestrained with her art (6)

### Answer: RATHER ### Explanation: Definition: Somewhat Anagram(*unrestrained*) of *HER ART* Defn: To some degree, extent, as in "I say, this crossword was rather easy!".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Mixture left is a delicate shade (6)

### Answer: PASTEL ### Explanation: Definition: a delicate shade PASTE(*mixture* of a granular solid with a liquid, resulting in a gooey texture, eg. dough for making pastries, clay for pottery, and starch glue) L(*$$l$$eft*) Defn: Descriptive of a light,*delicate* *shade*,colour.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Shellfish student found in river (4)

### Answer: CLAM ### Explanation: Definition: Shellfish L(abbreviation for $$l$$earner,*student*) in(*found in*) CAM(name for many *river*s, but the most famous is the one through Cambridge, which apparently gave its name to the river (renamed), and not vice versa.)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Food sheikh's dished out and child cut (5,5)

### Answer: SHISH KEBAB ### Explanation: Definition: Food Anagram(*dished out*) of {SHEIKH +(*and*) BAB(*child*,"baby" with its last letter deleted,*cut*)}

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Hold back this sly look (4)

### Answer: PEEK ### Explanation: Definition: sly look Reversal(*back*) of KEEP(as in "I'll keep,*hold* this for you")

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: River right in Ukraine beside lake (4)

### Answer: URAL ### Explanation: Definition: River R(*$$r$$ight*) in UA(International Vehicle Registration,Internet domain code for *Ukraine*) *beside* L(*$$l$$ake*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Where ladies go – a place for explosive stuff (6,4)

### Answer: POWDER ROOM ### Explanation: Definition: Where ladies go Whimsical expression for a room,*place* where gunpowder and other *explosive stuff* are stored. Properly called a gunpowder room. Defn: Euphemism for the *ladies'* loo, where they go to supposedly powder their noses. Nice surface with the "powder" bit. Powder room at Changi Airport Terminal 3

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Women confuse the Penguin's gait? (6)

### Answer: WADDLE ### Explanation: Definition: the Penguin's gait W(*$$w$$omen*) ADDLE(to mix up,muddle,*confuse*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: The French heroes are moved by a site of possible shipwreck (3,5)

### Answer: LEE SHORE ### Explanation: Definition: a site of possible shipwreck LE(the article *the* in *French*) + anagram(*are moved*) of *HEROES* Defn: The lee shore is the shore with the wind blowing towards it. The danger is that a ship, because of the wind, might be pushed to the shore, and *possibly* end up as a *shipwreck*.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Blokes curse their clobber (8)

### Answer: MENSWEAR ### Explanation: Definition: clobber MEN(guys,chaps,*blokes*) SWEAR(to *curse*) Defn: "*Clobber*" in British/Australian slang is a plural noun for "clothes".

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Bombshell stripping off outerwear in public display (4)

### Answer: EXPO ### Explanation: Definition: public display sEXPOt,*bombshell*,someone with lots of "it" without(*stripping off*) the first and last letters,*outerwear* Defn: The short form for "exposition", which has come to mean a big exhibition, or fair, eg. the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: I'll leave Luigi stewing fruit (4)

### Answer: UGLI ### Explanation: Definition: fruit Anagram(*stewing*) of LUGI(*Luigi* without "i",*I'll leave*) Defn: The trade mark for a citrus *fruit*, the Jamaican tangelo, a cross between a pomelo (or grapefruit) and an orange and a tangerine.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Prawn cocktail? Comparatively sharp within two seconds (8)

### Answer: STARTERS ### Explanation: Definition: Prawn cocktail? TARTER(whimsical comparative,*comparatively* of "tart",*sharp* in taste,acidic) in(*within*) SS(s = one $$s$$econd, ss = *two seconds*) Defn: An example,*?* of starters, the first course of the meal.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Record in new demon cut (8)

### Answer: DOCUMENT ### Explanation: Definition: Record Anagram(*new*) of *DEMON CUT

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: This riddle's a cipher (6)

### Answer: ENIGMA ### Explanation: Definition: This riddle,a cipher Double defn: 2nd: The *cipher*,code used by the Germans in WWII, broken by British intelligence and used against the Germans

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Finished like an audience after umpteenth curtain call? (7,3)

### Answer: CLAPPED OUT ### Explanation: Definition: Finished Whimsical description of what *an audience* would be *after* having to clap at *curtain call* after curtain call. Defn: Slang for being exhausted,*finished*,spent.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Eye up part of 18 (4)

### Answer: OGLE ### Explanation: Definition: Eye up Hidden in(*part of*) *18*,goOGLEd

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Month starts with atrocious days and rain (4)

### Answer: ADAR ### Explanation: Definition: Month *Starts with*,initial letters of *Atrocious Days And Rain * Defn: The 12th *month* of the year in the Jewish calendar.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: When all else fails try this campsite at Land's End? (4,6)

### Answer: LAST RESORT ### Explanation: Definition: When all else fails try this Another whimsical description, of the *campsite*,resort at *lands' end*,the last bit of land, on which the last resort stands.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Pasture's thyme time? (7)

### Answer: HERBAGE ### Explanation: Definition: Pasture HERB(of which *thyme* is an example,*?*) AGE(*time* period) Defn: *Pasture's* vegetation grazed by animals,pasturage.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Unhappy about a lovage's tip in cold meal (5)

### Answer: SALAD ### Explanation: Definition: cold meal SAD(*unhappy*) around(*about*) *A* L(initial letter,*tip* of "*lovage*". The word itself means a plant of the parsley family) Defn: A *cold meal*, mostly of raw vegetables. If one hated parsley and the like, one would be *unhappy*,sad (or mad) to find a *tip* of *lovage* in one's salad, making this a nice &lit.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: I p-perked up, having been made dry and cured (8)

### Answer: KIPPERED ### Explanation: Definition: made dry and cured Anagram(*having been*, I think) of *I P-PERKED

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Acts of cleaning up the "sharp end" with unusual dilatoriness (15)

### Answer: BOWDLERISATION ### Explanation: Definition: Acts of cleaning up BOW(*the* "*sharp end*", is the business end of things, where activity takes place; for seacraft, it's the bow, which also happens to be *sharp*,pointed, vs. the stern, though bows of bigger ships are nowadays rounded as well, to reduce drag) + anagram(*unusual*) of *DILATORINESS* Defn: *Acts of cleaning up*, aka censorship, of literature. Named after Thomas Bowdler, English editor of the late 18C/early 19C who published a special family edition Shakespeare's work which had been *cleaned up*,expurgated of "indecent" passages. Not to be confused with its opposite, "bawdlerisation", from "bawdy"….Nah, I just made that up!

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Who makes porter's brown jug? (6)

### Answer: BREWER ### Explanation: Definition: Who makes porter BR(*$$br$$own*) EWER(*jug*) Defn: He/she makes beers and ales, including *porter*,a heavy dark-brown ale.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Dry people start to tan skin (9)

### Answer: PARCHMENT ### Explanation: Definition: skin PARCH(to *dry*, eg. your throat) MEN(*people*, or strictly speaking, only about half of them) T(initial letter of,*start to* "*tan*") Defn: The *skin* of sheep, goats, etc. that's been prepared for writing on.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: This boosts, for example, ordinary journey (3,4)

### Answer: EGO TRIP ### Explanation: Definition: This boosts EG(exempli gratia,*for example*) O(*$$o$$rdinary*) TRIP(*journey*) Defn: Something that *boosts* one's ego, maybe like completing a Nimrod, Anax, Loroso, Bannsider, et al, or any decent crossword for that matter.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A particularly thick woollie for winter Olympian, perhaps (3,6)

### Answer: SKI JUMPER ### Explanation: Definition: winter Olympian, perhaps SKI(an adjective to signify usage in skiing, as in "ski mask", and presumably made of *particularly thick* material) JUMPER(woollen pullover sweater,woolly,*woollie*) Remember him?

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Voracious huntress with long hair at hospital dept (3-5)

### Answer: MAN-EATER ### Explanation: Definition: Voracious huntress MANE(*long hair*, such as lions and horses have) *AT* ER($$e$$mergency $$r$$oom,*hospital dept*) Defn: Literally, an animal who would hunt and devour humans (both men and women). Figuratively (there's a reason Jason has used the female gender "huntress"), a female who hunts and devours men…and maybe that's in the literal sense too (a la Private Eye)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Searched for broken leg in use (7)

### Answer: GOOGLED ### Explanation: Definition: Searched Anagram(*broken*) of *LEG* in GOOD(I'm not 100% sure of this: either as in "It's no *use* to dream" = "it's no good to dream", or if "*in*" doubles up, "*in use*" = "good" for a purpose)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: She goes on and on about trek? (7)

### Answer: RAMBLER ### Explanation: Definition: She goes on and on, about trek Could be regarded as a double defn: 1st: She who *goes* talking/writing *on and on*,rambles on; and 2nd: She who strolls,rambles *on and on about*(on) the *trek*,expedition.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Something for brekkie is right after church (6)

### Answer: CEREAL ### Explanation: Definition: Something for brekkie REAL(*right*,proper,utter, usually in a negative context, as in "he's a right/proper/utter git" = "he really is a git") Defn: Your carbohydrate,carbo for breakfast,*brekkie

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Solid vagrant objects to worship (5)

### Answer: IDOLS ### Explanation: Definition: objects to worship Anagram(*vagrant*) of *SOLID

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Ruth Rendell's first English detective (7)

### Answer: REMORSE ### Explanation: Definition: Ruth R(*first* letter of *Rendell*) + E(*$$E$$nglish*) + MORSE(Detective Chief Inspector, *detective* in Colin Dexter's series of novels set in Oxford. Among other things, Endeavour – his first name -was a cryptic crossword enthusiast). Defn: The noun meaning compassion,contrition,remorse, the root of the more common "*ruth*less". Probably some connection (but I don't know what) with Ruth, the biblical character known for her kindness and faithfulness. Nice surface to this as Ruth Rendell has her own series of mystery novels, centred around another English detective.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Throw out a proposed scheme (7)

### Answer: PROJECT ### Explanation: Definition: Throw out,a proposed scheme Double defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Crowd entertainer (4)

### Answer: HOST ### Explanation: Definition: Crowd,entertainer Double defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Bible story about fellow deserving forgiveness (10)

### Answer: PARDONABLE ### Explanation: Definition: deserving forgiveness PARABLE(*Bible story* which illustrates/teaches by allegory) around(*about*) DON(*fellow*/head/tutor at a university)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: The never ending round (6)

### Answer: CIRCLE ### Explanation: Definition: The never ending round Cryptic defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: OK, cheer set point for the brave (8)

### Answer: CHEROKEE ### Explanation: Definition: the brave Anagram(*set*) of *OK CHEER* + E($$e$$ast,compass *point*) Defn: A *brave*,male member of one of the American Indian tribes

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Coastline that's rocky in parts (9)

### Answer: SECTIONAL ### Explanation: Definition: in parts Anagram(*that's rocky*) of *COASTLINE

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Irritable friend of Mole and Toad (5)

### Answer: RATTY ### Explanation: Definition: Irritable,friend of Mole and Toad Double defn. 2nd: One of the characters in The Wind in the Willows, a children's book, featuring 4 main characters: *Mole*, Mr. *Toad*, Mr. Badger, and Ratty, who is, well, a water rat, *friend*s all.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: There are four to each deck, used for lifting (5)

### Answer: JACKS ### Explanation: Definition: There are four to each deck,used for lifting Double defn: 1st: *Each* pack,*deck* of playing cards has a jack of each of the *four* suits; and 2nd: mechanisms *used for lifting* cars, and even houses

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Steps inside (9)

### Answer: STAIRCASE ### Explanation: Definition: Steps inside Cryptic defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Taking trouble to point out (8)

### Answer: ADOPTION ### Explanation: Definition: Taking ADO(*trouble*,to-do) +(*to*) anagram(*out*) of *POINT* Defn: The noun, the "taking" in of an adoptee.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Deputy head with masses of paper getting dark thoughts (6)

### Answer: DREAMS ### Explanation: Definition: dark thoughts D(initial letter,*head* of "*deputy*") +(*with*) REAMS(*masses*,large quantity, derived from the measure *of paper*, 1 ream = 500 sheets)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Shortest way to the top, believe me (8,2)

### Answer: STRAIGHT UP ### Explanation: Definition: Shortest way to the top,believe me Double defn: 2nd: "(I'm being) straight up","no kiddling","*believe me*"

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: An opening for five, possibly ten (4)

### Answer: VENT ### Explanation: Definition: An opening V(Roman numeral for *five*) + anagram(*possibly*) of *TEN

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Checks made by the police? (7)

### Answer: ARRESTS ### Explanation: Definition: Checks Cryptic defn.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Blow this for the French game to start (7)

### Answer: WHISTLE ### Explanation: Definition: Blow this First,*to start* with WHIST(card *game*, forerunner of bridge) + LE(the article *the* in *French*)

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Sweetheart has reason to be sensitive (7)

### Answer: EMOTIVE ### Explanation: Definition: sensitive E(Middle letter,*heart* of *sweet*) +(*has*) MOTIVE(purpose,*reason* to do something) Defn: Highly subject,*sensitive* to being emotional

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: An eye for a drink (5)

### Answer: OPTIC ### Explanation: Definition: An eye,for a drink Double defn. 1st: Your familiar organ; and 2nd: the not-so-familiar trademark (apparently) name *for* your familiar *drink* dispenser that is attached to an inverted bottle.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: C-in-C starts to drink, gets more intoxicated (7)

### Answer: SUPREMO ### Explanation: Definition: C-in-C First,*starts* with SUP(*drink*) +(*gets*) anagram(*intoxicated*) of *MORE* Defn: *$$C$$*ommander*$$-in-C$$*hief, eg. General Dwight Eisenhower, Supreme Commander, Allied Forces in Europe, and later supreme commander of NATO.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Offered support in getting established (6)

### Answer: ROOTED ### Explanation: Definition: Offered support,established Double defn. 1st: Gave,*offered support*,rooted for; and 2nd: having been *established*,taken root

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: A French maid (4,2,3)

### Answer: JOAN OF ARC ### Explanation: Definition: A French maid Cryptic defn. *French*woman Jeanne d'Arc, the *Maid* of Orleans, who claimed divine guidance, and led her nation's army to several important victories against the English. Finally burned at the stake in Rouen. Edit.note: The original picture in the middle was probably blocked because it had an embedded link. It has been replaced.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Sect takes up clergyman involved in a runaway affair (7)

### Answer: CULVERT ### Explanation: Definition: a runaway affair CULT(religious or pseudo-religious *sect*) around(*takes*) reversal(*up*, in a down clue) of REV(the $$Rev$$erend so and so,*clergyman*) Defn: Basically a drain to take runoff,*runaway* water

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Drag one's feet on stair carpet that's laid out (13)

### Answer: PROCRASTINATE ### Explanation: Definition: Drag one's feet Anagram(*that's laid out*) of *ON STAIR CARPET

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### Clue: Happen to finish in the first three (4,5)

### Answer: TAKE PLACE ### Explanation: Definition: Happen,to finish in the first three Double defn: 1st: To occur,*happen*; and 2nd: The *first three* competitors *to finish* in a race, earning a gold, silver or bronze. However, for those, me included, who have had at least the occasional wager on the ponies, it's win, place and show for first, second and third respectively in a horse race.

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: His examinations necessitate a lot of bookwork (7)

### Answer: AUDITOR ### Explanation: Definition: His Cryptic defn. He who carries out an *examination* of the *book*s of a company to detect any irregularities, assuming he's better than the company's bean-counters/conjurers

You are an expert level solver of cryptic crosswords. You are presented with a clue as input. Respond with the answer and explanation.

### Clue: Detailed sort of investigation showing trendy profundity (2-5)

### Answer: IN-DEPTH ### Explanation: Definition: Detailed sort IN(with the in-crowd,*trendy*) + DEPTH(state of being profound,penetrating deeply into subjects and ideas,*profundity)

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### Clue: It is important to change lanes when encircling motorway (7)

### Answer: SEMINAL ### Explanation: Definition: It is important Anagram(*to change*) of *LANES* around(*when encircling*) MI(=M1, the *motorway* in England) Defn: *Important* to the extent that it is highly original and influential

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### Clue: Dog dropped tail to receive fuss (6)

### Answer: FIDGET ### Explanation: Definition: fuss FID("Fido", the nominal *dog*, minus,*dropped* its last letter,*tail*) + GET(*to receive*)